“Did You Exercise Before Heart Valve Surgery?” Asks Leticia

Posted by Adam Pick, August 10, 2009

I just received a great question from Leticia about exercise prior to heart valve surgery.

Leticia writes, “Hi Adam, I have been diagnosed with a bi-cuspid aortic heart valve. I have no symptoms or shortness of breath. My cardiologist hopes I can go for another 10 years without surgery. I’m concerned about my hobbies, which are aerobics and I teach ballet. I love my exercise and my doctor states that I don’t have to change my lifestyle unless I’m feeling symptoms. I’ve just read stories about athletic people having to reduce activity until after surgery. I don’t want to pass out one day and seriously injure or kill myself. Do you have any other info on exercise and bi-cuspid aortic heart valve? Thank you, Leticia”

At the same time, other patients – under medical supervision – engage in exercise to enhance their physical condition prior to heart valve surgery. For example, Sylvia Woolworth lost 35 pounds leading up to her heart valve replacement.

Sylvia – Lost 35 Pounds

As for me, my cardiologist restricted all exercise when it was determined that I needed an aortic valve replacement. However, I was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis, severe regurgitation and a dilated heart. Like Leticia, I was born with a congenital bicuspid aortic valve.

Specific to Leticia’s situation, I do not know the specific details of her valve disease progression (e.g. mild, moderate, or severe). That said, I would suggest that Leticia contact her cardiologist to better understand the severity of the disorder and its impact upon her exercise routine, if any.

One last note… I would also suggest to Leticia that symptom manifestation may not be the best, definitive indicator for timing heart valve surgery. So you know, I was asymptomatic but my heart was already enlarged. That said, I think all patients should be actively monitored on a yearly basis following initial diagnosis.